National COSH Applauds NYC Heat Protection Order
Worker advocates say the executive order is a major step toward preventing heat-related illnesses and fatalities as federal regulators continue developing a nationwide workplace heat standard.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- Jun 22, 2026
The National Council for Occupational Safety and Health (National COSH) is applauding New York City officials and worker advocacy groups following the issuance of an executive order to strengthen protections for workers exposed to extreme heat.
The order comes as heat waves become more frequent and intense across the United States and as federal regulators continue developing a nationwide workplace heat standard.
National COSH Executive Director Jessica E. Martínez called the action a significant step toward protecting workers from one of the nation's deadliest occupational hazards.
"This executive order sends a clear message: workers cannot wait," Martínez said in a statement. "Every worker has the right to a safe and healthy workplace, regardless of their job, immigration status, zip code, or the temperature outside."
Heat-related illnesses and fatalities remain a growing concern for workers in industries ranging from construction and agriculture to warehousing and manufacturing. Worker advocates have long argued that employers should implement safeguards such as access to water, shade, rest breaks, training and emergency response procedures.
National COSH said New York City's action reflects years of advocacy by the New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health (NYCOSH), the TEMP Coalition, labor unions, worker leaders and community organizations. The effort also aligns with the broader Fired Up! Workers for Heat Justice campaign, which seeks stronger workplace protections from extreme heat nationwide.
Charlene Obernauer, executive director of NYCOSH, credited workers and community advocates for pushing the issue to the forefront.
"Workers have been sounding the alarm about extreme heat for years and have been meeting with the Mayor's team alongside the TEMP Coalition to urge NYC to protect working people," Obernauer said. "This executive order shows that when workers organize and communities come together, real change is possible."
Supporters of the executive order argue that stronger heat protections benefit both workers and employers by reducing illnesses, injuries and lost productivity. They also contend that the economic costs of heat-related incidents extend beyond individual workplaces to families and communities.
The action comes as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration continues work on a proposed federal heat injury and illness prevention standard. Worker advocates have urged OSHA to finalize regulations covering both indoor and outdoor workers, while encouraging employers to adopt protective measures before federal requirements take effect.
National COSH said employers should not wait for mandates or enforcement actions before implementing heat safety programs.
"Workers need water, shade, rest, training and emergency protections now," Martínez said.
Advocates say New York City's executive order could serve as a model for other jurisdictions seeking to address the increasing risks posed by extreme heat and climate-related workplace hazards.
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco brings a strong and varied journalism background to her role at Occupational Health & Safety, having previously served as a multimedia editor, broadcast journalist, professor and reviewer across major news organizations. As Content Editor, she writes news and feature articles, hosts sponsor and editorial webinars, co-hosts the SafetyPod worker health and safety podcast, and manages the brand’s digital and social media presence. She is committed to informing and engaging the safety community through compelling reporting and conversations that support safer, healthier workplaces.